THE FIRM

In a nutshell:​ Nichols runs an £88m business specialising in soft drinks and beverage systems. It supplies both the UK retail and foodservice sectors

History:​ The love affair with drinks started nearly 100 years ago when John Noel Nichols created Vimto in 1908. Since then the company has developed progressively, entering new markets abroad and acquiring a number of companies along the way. It floated on the London Stock Exchange before moving to AIM in 2004

Brands you'd recognise:​ No childhood would be complete without having tasted (the secret recipe of) one of Nichols' biggest brands Vimto. The Vimto operation also markets and sells the Panda and Sunkist brands.

Last year the company sold 12m bottles of Vimto cordial, 26m bottles of carbonate and 92m cans

The strategy:​ Nichols is “committed to serving customers, looking after staff and supporting the communities in which our staff live and work," say its directors.

It sees gaining and keeping the trust of stakeholders, shareholders, staff, suppliers, customers and partners as critical to sustaining long-term strength and growth.

An Investor in People, the company operates by a clear set of values, including to continually educate and develop people, build long-term partnerships with stakeholders, remain accountable and act with integrity.

In 2004, the group received a National Business Award for Outstanding People Development

Where you’d work:​ The group employs over 200 people across the UK. HQ is based in the North West.

A Vimto Academy, dedicated to training and development, was set up in 2001 to offer a management development programme for employees

Do say at interview:​ Who put oranges in my Vimto?

Don't say at interview:​ My mum wants to know what the secret recipe is